Do you suffer from a constant dull ache in your lower back? Or do you feel discomfort in your lower back when standing up from being seated for a prolonged period of time?
Could be due to tight hip flexors.
Repetitive activity or sitting down for too long leads to prolonged contraction of the psoas. This can cause the psoas to tighten and limit the range of movement in the hip joints.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it might well be worth considering that it may be caused by tight hip flexors.
Prolonged sitting or activities such as jogging and cycling can lead tit tight hip flexors. The hip flexors are a muscle group formed by 2 seperate muscles. The psoas major and iliacus combine to form the iliopsoas. Its main action is to flex you hip (bring your leg towards your chest). Although it controls movement of the leg, the psoas originates from front of the lumbar spine and inserts into inside of the upper thigh bone. Therefore, due to its beginning at the vertebrae, it can directly affect the alignment of your spine.
Tightness of the psoas major can pull the vertebrae forward, l leading to a forward pelvic rotation. As a result, it can alter posture and inhibit the activity of the opposing muscle group (glutes).
Tightness of the psoas major can result in back spasms and lower back pain by compressing the lumbar discs. As well as structural problems, it can also constrict nearby organs, nerves and interfere with breathing.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it might well be worth considering that you have tight hip flexors.
Written by Nicholas Dimos (Physiotherapist)
